iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ Review

iRobot’s brand-new Roomba Combo j9+ is a top-tier 2-in-1 robot vacuum priced over $1,000 (Check here if this robot vacuum is on sale). Not only does it sport the retractable mop from its earlier version, but it also introduces a game-changing Auto-fill Dock. This means you’ll spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying a cleaner home.

iRobot has just unveiled its latest and greatest: the Roomba Combo j9+, a 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop. This new model steps up its game by self-refilling its water tank, a feature many rivals already boast.

Launched in September, this advanced robot not only carries the innovative retractable mop from the Roomba Combo j7+ but also introduces the Clean Base Auto-fill Dock. This enhancement boosts the robot’s autonomy, making maintenance a breeze. You can snag the Roomba Combo j9+ on preorder now here.

What sets the Auto-fill Dock apart? It’s equipped with a spacious reservoir that can store up to a month’s worth of mopping liquid. Whether you prefer plain water or the Bona brand cleaning solution, it’s got you covered. When the robot’s mopping tank is empty, the dock takes charge, refilling it without any fuss. This is a significant leap from the Roomba Combo j7+, which called for hands-on tank refills.

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Last update on 2023-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Automatic mop refilling

While the Roomba’s new feature is a noteworthy addition, it’s not pioneering in the broader robot vacuum realm. Brands like Ecovacs and Roborock were ahead of the curve, introducing auto mop refilling in their elite hybrids, the Deebot X1 Omni and S7 MaxV Ultra, back in early 2022. What’s more, these premium models from Ecovacs and Roborock have an edge—they can self-wash and dry their mopping cloths, a perk yet to be seen in any Roomba.

iRobot’s CEO, Colin Angle, shared some insights. While he’s open to the idea of Roombas with auto mop-washing in the future, he believes the tech isn’t quite there yet. Highlighting a drawback, he mentioned that rival robots merely give the mopping pad a water rinse, still necessitating an occasional hand wash with soap for thorough cleaning.

As floor-cleaning robots evolve, their docks are expanding in size. The Combo j9+’s Auto-fill Dock is no exception. While it’s bulkier than the typical robot vacuum base, it stands out with a stylish wood-like finish, serving as a functional surface. Plus, it’s designed with handy storage for spare mop pads and dust bags.

iRobot might have been a tad late to the 2-in-1 party, launching its debut model only a year ago, but they’re now going all-in on these hybrids. Their recent lineup includes two mid-tier 2-in-1s: the Roomba Combo j5+ and the Roomba Combo i5+. Unlike their pricier siblings, the Combo j7+ and the fresh-off-the-line Combo j9+, these models don’t come with a retractable mop. However, the Roomba Combo j5+ boasts no-mop zones and a camera for spotting and dodging obstacles. On the other hand, the budget-friendly Roomba Combo i5+ is tailored for compact homes with predominantly hard floors and skips these features.

Regular Robot Vacuum

In addition to the Combo lineup, iRobot is introducing the Roomba j9+, positioning it as a top-tier robot vacuum without mopping capabilities. The j9+ series boasts the mightiest suction among all Roombas, achieving twice the pickup efficiency of the i series and outlasting the j7 series in battery life. The “+” in the name signifies that both the Combo and the standard j9+ models come with the convenience of automatic bin emptying. And the best part? iRobot claims you’ll only need to swap out the dust bag bi-monthly.

On the tech front, the newly released iRobot OS 7.0 brings the SmartScrub feature to the table for the Combo j7+. This enhancement aims to double the scrubbing prowess compared to the regular mopping mode, addressing a key concern users had. When SmartScrub is active, the robot employs a consistent downward force, moving back and forth to effectively tackle stubborn messes, as per iRobot. And yes, the Combo j9+ also enjoys the benefits of SmartScrub.

Dirt Detective

The latest iRobot OS 7.0 introduces another nifty feature for the Roomba j9+: Dirt Detective. This smart tool recalibrates the robot’s cleaning path, directing it to address the dirtiest rooms first. It makes these decisions by analyzing historical cleaning data and recent dirt incidents, ensuring the bathroom is tackled last. Cleaning the bathroom before any other room is just unsanitary. Always leave the bathroom for last.

Dirt Detective doesn’t stop there. It fine-tunes the robot’s settings to match the room and flooring. This means you won’t often find yourself fiddling with cleaning preferences in the app—though the option remains open. For instance, it might prompt the robot to do a double round in the kitchen or ramp up the suction when cruising over carpets and through corridors.

Last update on 2023-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Design and Aesthetics

The iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ is not just another robotic vacuum cleaner; it’s a statement of modern design and technological prowess. Here’s a closer look at its design and aesthetics:

The Look and Feel of the Roomba j9+

At first glance, the Roomba Combo j9+ exudes a sense of sophistication. Its sleek, circular design is complemented by a matte finish, giving it a premium appearance that distinguishes it from many other robotic vacuums in the market. The top panel houses a minimalistic interface with touch-sensitive buttons, ensuring that the Roomba remains user-friendly while maintaining its modern aesthetic.

The Roomba Combo j9+ is designed to be unobtrusive. Its low-profile design ensures that it can easily glide under furniture, making sure every nook and cranny of your home is cleaned without any obstacles. The subtle LED indicators provide real-time feedback on the device’s status, whether it’s in cleaning mode, charging, or requires attention.

Dimensions and Weight Considerations

One of the standout features of the Roomba Combo j9+ is its compactness. Measuring at a diameter of just over 13 inches and a height of about 3.5 inches, it’s designed to navigate tight spaces with ease. This compact design ensures that the Roomba can access areas that might be challenging for bulkier models.

In terms of weight, the iRobot Roomba j9+ strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for easy portability and having enough heft to ensure stability during its cleaning cycles. Weighing in at approximately 8.5 pounds, it’s neither too heavy to lift nor too light to skid across surfaces.

Battery Life and Performance

The iRobot Roomba j9+ is equipped with a powerful battery system that ensures it can handle the cleaning needs of most homes without frequent interruptions. Let’s delve into the specifics:

Duration of Cleaning Cycles

The Roomba j9+ boasts an impressive cleaning cycle duration. On a full charge, it can operate for up to 120 minutes, depending on the cleaning mode and the type of surface it’s working on. This extended runtime ensures that the Roomba can cover large areas or multiple rooms in a single session, reducing the need for frequent recharges and making it ideal for both small apartments and larger homes.

Charging Time and Battery Longevity

When it comes to recharging, the Roomba Combo j9+ is designed for efficiency. It takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to fully charge the device. The Roomba’s intelligent system also ensures that it returns to its dock for charging when the battery is low, ensuring minimal intervention from the user.

In terms of battery longevity, the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, the battery can retain optimal performance for several years. Periodic software updates from iRobot also ensure that the Roomba’s battery management system remains efficient, maximizing the lifespan of the battery.

Integration with Smart Home Devices

In today’s interconnected world, the ability of a device to seamlessly integrate with other smart devices is crucial. The Roomba j9+ excels in this department:

Compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Siri, and the iRobot Home App

The Roomba j9+ is designed to be a part of your smart home ecosystem. It is fully compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Siri. This means you can start, stop, or schedule cleaning sessions using simple voice commands.

Additionally, the iRobot Home App provides a more hands-on approach to managing your Roomba. Through the app, users can set cleaning schedules, view cleaning history, and even get real-time updates on the Roomba’s status. The app’s intuitive interface ensures that even those new to smart devices can navigate and control their Roomba with ease.

Voice Control Functionalities

Voice control is one of the standout features of the Roomba j9+. Whether you’re asking Alexa to start a cleaning session or telling Siri to send the Roomba back to its dock, the voice control functionalities are responsive and accurate. This hands-free control is especially useful when you’re multitasking or when the Roomba is in a different room. It’s a testament to iRobot’s commitment to providing a user-friendly and futuristic cleaning solution.

Conclusion

The iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ stands out as a testament to the advancements in robotic vacuum technology. Its array of features, combined with its efficiency and smart integrations, make it a worthy addition to any modern home.

The Roomba j9+ is more than just a vacuum cleaner; it’s a glimpse into the future of home cleaning. Its intelligent design, combined with its robust performance, ensures that it delivers on its promise of a cleaner home with minimal effort.

For those looking for a top-tier robotic vacuum that offers both efficiency and convenience, the Roomba j9+ is a solid choice. While it may require a higher initial investment, the time and effort it saves in the long run make it a worthwhile purchase. However, potential buyers should be prepared for regular maintenance to ensure the device’s longevity and optimal performance.

Last update on 2023-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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